A “Spooky” Shoulder Blade

Abstract

Disorders affecting the scapula can lead to significant limitations in arm movement and pain. Scapular winging is a rare, painful, and debilitating condition that leads to limited functional abilities of the upper limb. This condition can be caused by multiple etiologies, most commonly lesions to the long thoracic nerve (serratus anterior weakness) and spinal accessory nerve (trapezius weakness). Other less common types may be caused by lesions affecting the dorsal scapular nerve. These neurological lesions produce characteristic and distinct types of scapular winging or dyskinesis. This chapter reviews the various types of scapular winging and discusses their evaluation, diagnosis, and management options.